What type of competition is described when members of the same species compete for limited resources?

The type of competition described when members of the same species compete for limited resources is known as interference competition. In this context, interference competition occurs when individuals directly interact with each other to limit access to resources such as food, water, space, or light. Members of the same species may engage in aggressive behaviors, territorial claims, or other activities that directly inhibit each other's ability to access resources.

In contrast, exploitation competition involves individuals indirectly competing through the consumption of shared resources, while interspecific competition refers to competition between different species. Resource competition is a broader term that can encompass both exploitation and interference but does not specify the direct interactions characteristic of interference competition.

Understanding the nuances of these types of competition is crucial in ecological studies, as it helps clarify dynamics within populations and impacts on community structures.